~ Cogito ergo sum

Repatriation – part 1

Repatriation is defined as “the return of someone to their own country,” but it’s more than that. It’s this whole complicated readjustment to one’s own culture and once familiar surroundings. It’s this weird state of being where the environment that used to be everything you knew is now strange and uncomfortable. I find myself wanting to reach back for everything I loved about NL, transport it to this present place and mix it with what I love about home. That would be perfect!

We find ourselves critiquing America a lot and it’s probably unfair. The cost of living is ridiculous, the traffic is horrendous, people are rude, the landscape is marred with overdevelopment, obnoxious politics is in our face . . . and the list goes on. Okay, it’s a little unfair. I’m not ready to analyze it that closely right now, though. Right now, I just want to figure out how to stay emotionally balanced — let go of what I can’t change and stay positive.

Step one – spend time with family. This is what we missed the most and why we’re here. Alan and Natasha (brother and sister-in-law) have graciously given us a temporary place to stay. We’ve been able to restart regular time with Kathryn and it’s been so good to hang out with Jenna and Jamie. This week we will visit Smid family and hope to provide some help to mom & dad. Then we will meet up with Jasmine, Matt, Jared, Michelle and EMMA!!! I can’t wait to smooch those chubby cheeks! I’m so excited to see them all!

Step two – get the jobs nailed down. It will help to have a work routine and we pray that we will be in jobs that are fulfilling. We’re just into our second week back and Dick already has some promising leads. I had an interview, but it’s not the right fit for me right now. I’m exploring other possibilities.

Step three – find a home. This is a big one for me. I’ve been looking forward to finding a cozy home where we can entertain family, friends and visitors. I really want to put down roots in a place where we can get involved in the community. I guess that’s Step four – get involved and give back.